5 Things You Need to be Aware of Regarding Physical Activity

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Transcript of 5 Things You Need to be Aware of Regarding Physical Activity

5 Things You Need to be Aware of Regarding Physical ActivityPhysical Activity and diseasePhysical Activity increases EnergyPhysical Activity and ConfidencePhysical activities reduce stressSocial Relationships and Physical ActivityA survey conducted by Peter Salmon showed that regular physical activities reduced sensitivity to stress (Salmon, 2001).Moreover, stress can diminish one's self-esteem. However, studies have shown that physical activity improves self-esteem and counteracts the symptoms of stress (Ekeland, Heian, & Hagen, 2005).Physical activity serves as a distraction from stressors such as work overload, the loss of a job and other daily stressors.Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates are common forms of physical activities that help reduce stress as they take your mind off your stressor through mind-body concentrations.Stress is associated with development of most major mental health problems – depression, PTSD, and pathological aging (Marin et al., 2011)A study conducted in 2005 found that "78% [of people in the US] are at elevated health risk because they do not get enough physical activity" (Aldana, et al., 2005).A healthy diet is not enough to prevent disease. In 2010, chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes made up 7 of the top 10 causes of death in the US (Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion, 2014). Of such deaths, it is estimated that 70% to 90% are preventable through physical exercise, a healthy diet, and avoidance of tobacco (Aldana, et al., 2005).Diabetes, hypertension, and bone degeneration are all largely preventable through physical activity (Aldana, et al., 2005). Physical activity can limit the symptoms of most diseases, to such an extent that sometimes medical treatment is not even needed.Day-to-day activities that involve physical or cognitive processes require energy (ATP). Physical activity also increases one's energy. Researchers have identified that those who were physically active experienced better sleep quality and “reported fewer depressive symptoms, more vitality, and less sleepiness in the daytime.” (Hendrick 2010)A lack of sleep can lead to problems with mood, mental processing, and may eventually result in death.Physical activity helps improve one's self-confidence.The level of self-confidence, growth, and development will carry on into their later years, and with continual practice and rehearsal, one can learn to master anything.At young ages, children grow, learn, and communicate through playing. Playing is important to children as they promote opportunities where children must feel confident about their abilities (Bunker 1991). Our social networks provide support by encouraging and enabling us to live healthy lives.Individuals who are socially isolated and less integrated are less healthy physically and psychologically (House, R, & Umberson, (1988)).A study on the effect of social networks on physical activity showed that those with greater network diversity and social participation were more likely to be physically active (Legh-Jones & Moore, 2012).Social participation can affect physical activity directly (joining gyms, classes, and clubs) or indirectly (increasing information and possible opportunities) (Legh-Jones & Moore, 2012).Another study, conducted on adolescents’ social network and physical activity, identified three channels that influence one to become physically active. The three channels are: family, friends, and significant others (coaches & teachers). Furthermore, three types of influence were identified: conformity (it’s cool to do that), compliance (coach talked me into it), and obedience (my parents said so) (Spink, Wilson, & Ulvick, 2012).In conclusion...It is crucial to have an adequate social network and environment to help promote, sustain and regulate our physical health.“Physical activity refers to all body movements produced by skeletal muscles resulting in energy expenditure” (Health Canada 2004)How does stress arise? “Stress arises when individuals perceive that they cannot adequately cope with demands being made on them or with threats to their well-being.” (Lazarus, R.S 1966).However, without proper self-care, one will require more energy to carry out simple functions such as walking, communicating, or maintaining positive attitudes.Studies have shown that those who are more physically active have more pleasant experiences in life (improved health, mood, and energy).” (Magnan, Kwan, Bryan 2013)It is quite evident that physical activity is beneficial to an individual's health as it: Helps one cope with stressKeeps one away from diseaseIncreases one's energyBoosts one's confidence

In addition, your social circle plays a huge role in motivating you to participate in physical activity.KEEP CALMANDFurthermore, it is important to understand that physical activity doesn’t have to be a rigid workout routine, it can be fun and enjoyable, and the benefits outweigh any possible risks.